Convos - Stories That Connect

The Evermore Living Group brings together construction, care, property and community through an integrated approach designed around people and place, including key precinct elements such as Ahmedi’s IGA @ Solaris and the Great Lakes Day Hospital.

This vision is supported by a team leading delivery on the ground: Stefan Engals (Project Manager, Global Construction), Anthony Grosvenor (Village Manager, Evermore Bruce Street and Solaris), Nova Grosvenor (GM, Evermore Living Care), Chris Garraway (Aion Property Group), alongside Dr Muneef (Great Lakes Day Hospital) and Ghaz Ahmedi (Ahmedi’s IGA @ Solaris).

Featured in this edition of CONVOS Season 2, the conversation brings 2 of these voices, Nova and Anthony, together to explore how this collective approach is shaping Forster’s future and what it means for the way communities live, connect and evolve.

Tanya Thompson is the local Member for Myall Lakes, a role she stepped into following a couple of pivotal “sliding doors” moments that changed the direction of her life.

In this episode, CONVOS host Megan Lewis chats with Tanya about her journey from small business into politics, the personal impact of public life, what last year’s floods taught her, and why staying genuinely connected to local people matters so deeply to her.

It’s a conversation that gives a real insight into the person behind the public role and explores what surprises people most about being an MP, the realities behind the public profile, and her hopes for the future of the Mid North Coast over the next 50 years. 

A few laughs, good conversation, and a whole lot of talk about food, is what was on the menu for this episode of Convos. Jade and Kady are the dynamic duo behind the great food, and fun times at Thirty Three Degrees - Yumbah, a seafood restaurant with a story, and one of the best views in town.

To find out more about Thirty Three Degrees you can check them out here...
https://thirtythreedegrees.sydney/

https://www.facebook.com/thirtythreedegrees.sydney

https://www.instagram.com/_thirtythreedegrees/

When COVID hit, Dave and Jane, two ex pat Aussies lving and running pubs in London, decided it was time to come home. After 20+ years abroad, they decided to go for a slower, more serene lifestyle, where Dave could indulge his love of surfing, and they could use their hospitality background to create someting special. 

And that's where Pacific Ocean Brewery enters the chat. 

In this episode we chat with Dave about life, hospitality, and building a life and business on the Barrington Coast. 

Check them out at...
https://www.facebook.com/pacificoceanbrewery

https://www.instagram.com/pacificoceanbrewery/

Kirk Owers is a world class, award winning, travel writer. He's an adventurer who's travells are often quests for epic powder snow or perfect waves.  He's a music lover, wedding photographer and champion of the beautiful Barrington Coast. 

In the episode of Convos, we chat with Kirk about his travels, what he loves about the Barrington Coast and even get a sneak peek a new shark docco he's been hearing about.

If you want to see some of Kirk's work you'll find it here...
https://www.escape.com.au/the-team/kirk-owers

https://www.facebook.com/kirkowersphotography

https://www.instagram.com/kirkowersweddings/

In this episode, Head Pinky and local community advocate Simon Gould is joined by Tracy Bevan, McGrath Foundation Ambassador & Director, to explore how pink has become a symbol of unity, compassion and care. They discuss the nationwide movement and local efforts to raise funds for Cancer Care Nurses supporting residents across the Barrington Coast. From creative fundraisers to heartfelt community moments, discover how this powerful colour continues to unite and inspire.

Learn more about the McGrath Foundation and Pink Up Forster Tuncurry.  

https://www.mcgrathfoundation.com.au/

https://www.facebook.com/McGrathFoundation

https://www.facebook.com/pinkupforstertuncurry

In this episode, podcast host Megan Lewis sits down with Donna Ballard — a local powerhouse who doesn’t wait for opportunities; she creates them and makes things happen. From her first job to her current role in community leadership, Donna’s journey is a testament to the power of saying yes, staying curious, and backing your region.

Her story weaves through creativity, education, and connection — always anchored in a deep love for the Barrington Coast. Whether she’s supporting the next generation at Taree Universities Campus or helping bring the Wingham Music Festival to life, Donna shares her energy, optimism, and vision for what’s possible when community comes first.

Taree Universities Campus
Wingham Music Festival

Best known as Nadine the Cake Queen — a fully qualified pastry chef with over 40 years of experience and a true master of balancing the sweet arts. From Sydney to London to Smiths Lake, Nadine’s creations are decadent, delicious, and visually spectacular — edible art at the heart of weddings and celebrations across the Barrington Coast.

In this episode, Nadine shares her journey and her signature “bring it on, be in the zone, make it happen” energy-medicine mindset. Discover her top tips for designing the perfect celebration cake, creating memories forever!

https://www.facebook.com/NadineTheCakeQueen

https://www.thecakequeen.com.au

The Great Lakes Food Trail - connecting producers with community

Tips & Inspo

A chat with Adrian Panuccio — “calm, honest, gritty,” get to know the General Manager of MidCoast Council. Adrian shares his passion for the region, classic cars, motorbikes, and restoration. In this episode, Adrian reflects on the challenges and opportunities in local government and offers insights into the region’s unique assets. You’ll also hear Adrian’s practical tips on getting involved and making a meaningful impact in your own backyard.

Get Involved – Stay Informed:
 MidCoast Weekly News WRAP UP
 Destination Barrington Coast
 Manning Entertainment Centre
 Manning Regional Art Gallery
 MidCoast Council Libraries
 MyMidCoast.com.au – Community Directory

Meet two local legends and podcast hosts, 

Steerer of the Ship Simon Gould from Orbit Marketing and Queen Megan Lewis from The Resolution Network. Dive into what brought them to the Barrington Coast and what keeps them here.

Poddy’s Simon and Megan are change makers, serial contributors in the region, and the 

ultimate convo connectors, sparking up great discussions. Tune in for a podcast that’s as engaging as it is entertaining.  

Hit play and join the conversation on Convos: Stories That Connect!

Have an idea for us, or a guest you'd like us to interview? Join us on our socials or visit our website...

https://www.facebook.com/lifestylebarringtoncoast

https://www.instagram.com/lifestylebarringtoncoast/

https://lifestylebarringtoncoast.com.au/